Simultaneous cognitive-physical dual task training based on fairy tales in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: A pilot study

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to develop a simultaneous cognitive-physical dual-task training program based on familiar cultural backgrounds using fairy tales and to explore its feasibility and preliminary effects, including effects on neurophysiological, cognitive, and physical functions. A single-group pretest-posttest design (n = 9) was employed to evaluate the effects of the cognitive-physical intervention performed for 60-90 min once a week for 12 weeks. The findings showed that perceived memory and physical self-efficacy, muscle strength, and cognitive function were significantly increased after the intervention. Although the relative beta band power measured using electroencephalography showed a tendency to increase in eight brain domains after the 12-week intervention, the changes were not significant. Findings suggested that the intervention was feasible and provided beneficial effects on cognitive and physical functions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment. Future research on larger sample sizes using randomized controlled trials is needed to determine the effectiveness of such interventions on neurophysiological functions.

Keywords: Cognition; Cognitive impairment; Dual-task training; Electroencephalography; Exercise.